Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or hitting the beach, a collapsible wagon will allow you to load up and move your gear with ease so you can enjoy your time outdoors. But which one should you buy? Our team tested 13 of the most popular folding carts from brands like Coleman and Sekey and then ranked them by their performances in six key areas.
At mybest, we think the best collapsible wagon is durable and easy to maneuver, even when it’s loaded with lots of gear. Keep scrolling for our in-depth testing results, along with tips on how to choose the right folding cart for your needs.
Teddy is a freelance writer focused on the outdoor industry and adventure sports. When not enjoying cerebral and caffeine-fueled writing, he works as a rock climbing guide in upstate New York.
With ten years of camping experience, Shinkuro Tateoka has participated in various outdoor activities, ranging from cooking around a campfire to more daring adventures like eating snakes and insects and exploring remote areas. Using his experience and knowledge, he now conducts thorough testing of a wide range of products at mybest. With the goal of "showcasing gear that everyone from beginners to experts can enjoy," he strives to create engaging content with users in mind.
Collapsible wagons that score high in this area demonstrate that they’re capable of navigating uneven terrain and withstand heavy loads.
Ideally, a foldable wagon should be able to accommodate almost one day's worth of family camping gear.
Wagons that score well here are capable of being wheeled on the beach and uneven surfaces, even when they’re fully loaded.
Wagons that excel in this area are able to move in all directions with minimal force, as that will help prevent fatigue.
Here, we were seeking products that can fit easily in the trunk of an SUV and can be easily lifted with one hand.
Our testers were looking for carts that could be set up and folded down in little time, without much effort required.
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
A collapsible wagon allows you to transport a lot of luggage or gear at once. It comes in handy for outdoor activities like camping, beach trips, and outdoor sporting events. Folding carts are also convenient for grocery shopping and gardening. As the name implies, you can fold the wagon down for storage when it’s not in use.
If you're someone who wants to bring it to events like watching sports, please select "For Outings" in the rankings.
While you may have seen children being pulled around in a folding cart, it’s not recommended. In fact, most manufacturers advise against doing this.
If you insist on putting your child in a collapsible wagon, you’re doing so at your own risk (as well as your child’s). These wagons do not have safety features or a seat for children. Even if the load capacity is greater than your child's weight, there’s still a chance that the cart will buckle under too much pressure in one particular area, which can lead to injury.
There are products designed to carry children, similar to a wagon stroller. If your main purpose is to go out with your child, choosing that could be one option.
Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Collapsible Wagons.
Folding carts are expected to handle heavy loads, so you’ll want something that’s made to last for years. Here are three points that indicate a durable build:
When using a cart with a fixed handle, be conscious of making gradual turns when navigating curves! This will prevent excessive force from being applied to the base of the handle, extending the lifespan of your cart.
Also, many people use fire pits at camps. As many cart fabrics are vulnerable to sparks, it's a good idea to keep your cart at a distance from the fire pit.
The appeal of a foldable carry cart is its ability to transport a lot of items at once. As a general guideline, seek a wagon that’s at least 5.3 cu. ft. in volume. This should be enough room for most people. Anything smaller and you’ll either have to make repeat trips or carry some items by hand, which makes it less of a convenience.
Of course, go for an even higher capacity if you want to load a lot of larger gear – tents, tarps, coolers, and tables, to name a few. This will save you the hassle of having to make repeat trips to your car that’ll cut into your leisure time.
In all honesty, you can overlook a wagon’s suggested weight capacity. Volume is more important in this case.
For instance, camping equipment may be bulky, but even if you fill a standard folding wagon to the brim with the most typical items, it’ll only weigh about 155 lbs. Considering the load capacity of the wagons we tested ranges from around 180 to 260 lbs., it’s unlikely you’ll exceed that limit.
The shape of a wagon’s handle influences how easy it is to maneuver. During our tests, we had 10 people pull a carry cart loaded with items weighing around 180 lbs. to evaluate its ease of operation. Overall, our testers found that O-shaped handles provided a comfortable level of movement.
O-shaped handles were favored among our testers because they have an ergonomic design, allowing for a firm grip to apply force easily. They were also able to effortlessly steer through curves by switching their hands in the direction they wanted to turn.
On the other hand, our testers said collapsible carts with T-shaped handles were hard to grip, making it difficult to apply force. They’re also too cumbersome for people with small hands.
I tried pulling a carry cart with a T-shaped handle in various ways, but all of them made it hard to apply force and gave the impression of a difficult pull. Wagons with an O-shaped handle are the better choice.
You can confirm the shape of the handle in the "Handle Shape" section of the rankings part, so please check there.
A cart that doesn’t require a lot of force to move will leave you less fatigued. In our tests, we found that collapsible wagons weighing less than 18 lbs. were easier to push – even when filled with the same amount of items as heavier carts.
This time, a panel of 10 men and women evaluated the ease of operation by pulling a collapsible wagon loaded with about 180 lbs.
They navigated an obstacle course and reviewed the ease of going straight and turning, among other factors, for 13 different carts.
Once you’re finished using your cart, you’ll want to fold and store it immediately. An integrated bottom plate means there is no removable plate you need to take out before folding the wagon. A collapsible wagon with an integrated bottom plate will make the breakdown process a cinch.
The alternative to an integrated bottom plate is a separate bottom plate, which will require more effort on your part when setting up and folding down. You’ll also have to store and carry the plate with you, which means less overall space for the rest of your things.
If you’re primarily using your collapsible wagon for beach trips, look for tires at least 3 inches wide. Thicker tires will prevent your cart from sinking into the sand.
On the sand such as at the beach, it can be said that the wheels of a carry cart are prone to getting buried in the sand. As they often sink due to weight, please keep in mind to load less luggage.
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | Details | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Durability | Loading Capacity | Ease of Use on Rough Terrain | Ease of Maneuvering | Portability | Ease of Setup/Pack Up | Width when stored (measured value) | Depth when stored (measured value) | Height when stored (measured value) | Width when expanded (measured value) | Depth when expanded (measure value) | Height when expanded (measured value) | Load Capacity | Main Unit Weight (measured value) | Frame Material | Fabric Material | Handle Shape | Tire Diameter (measured value) | Tire Width (measured value) | Functionable as Table | With Canopy | With Push Bar | Rotating Handle | Telescoping Handle | Tire Material | With Storage Cover | With Side Pouch | With Bottle Holder | Integrated Bottom Plate | ||||||
1 | VIVOSUN Collapsible Folding Wagon | ![]() | 4.52 | mybest's Top Choice: The Best Balance of Durability and Maneuverability | 5.00 | 4.58 | 3.85 | 4.31 | 4.82 | 4.32 | 10 in. | 9 in. | 27 in. | 35 in. | 20 in. | 40 in. | 220 lb. | 18 lb. | Steel | Oxford fabric | O-shaped | 6.7 in. | 1.5 in. | Rubber | ||||||||||
2 | TIMBER RIDGE Collapsible Wagon Cart | ![]() | 4.29 | A Good Collapsible Wagon For Small Trips | 4.50 | 4.16 | 3.94 | 4.36 | 4.83 | 4.00 | 7 in. | 9 in. | 30 in. | 18 in. | 35 in. | 12 in. | 225 lb. | 18 lb. | Steel | Polyester | O-shaped | 7 in. | 1.5 in. | Rubber | ||||||||||
3 | Navatiee Wagon Cart | ![]() | 4.16 | The Best Collapsible Wagon for Ease of Setup | 4.00 | 4.05 | 3.88 | 4.35 | 4.42 | 5.00 | 19 in. | 6 in. | 16 in. | 34 in. | 19 in. | 24 in. | 220 lb. | 20 lb. | Steel | PVC | O-shaped | 6.9 in. | 1.4 in. | Resin | ||||||||||
4 | Sekey Collapsible Foldable Wagon | ![]() | 4.11 | A Large-Capacity Cart With Wide Tires | 3.50 | 4.61 | 4.48 | 4.24 | 4.75 | 4.29 | 9 in. | 11 in. | 24 in. | 22 in. | 36 in. | 23 in. | 330 lb. | 22 lb. | Steel | Oxford | O-shaped | 7 in. | 3.7 in. | Resin | ||||||||||
5 | Costway Collapsible Folding Wagon|84985978 | ![]() | 4.10 | Currently unavailable | This Wagon Has the Largest Capacity on Our List | 3.50 | 4.92 | 3.89 | 4.49 | 4.82 | 4.29 | 9 in. | 9 in. | 24.5 in. | 23 in. | 37 in. | 42 in. | 180 lb. | 18 lb. | Steel | Oxford fabric | O-shaped | 6.9 in. | 1.4 in. | Rubber | |||||||||
6 | MACSPORTS Classio Wagon with Side Table | ![]() | 4.01 | Perfect for Tailgating and Navigating Uneven Terrain | 4.00 | 3.43 | 4.23 | 4.32 | 4.32 | 4.50 | 20 in. | 3 in. | 8 in. | 43 in. | 20 in. | 22 in. | 150 lb. | 22 lb. | Steel | Polyester | O-shaped | 7.8 in. | 1.6 in. | Rubber | ||||||||||
7 | Amazon Amazon Basics Collapsible Folding Outdoor Utility Wagon|JC163 | ![]() | 3.92 | A Small, Lightweight Cart That’s Easy to Operate | 3.50 | 3.67 | 3.97 | 4.63 | 4.47 | 4.75 | 19 in. | 5 in. | 20 in. | 40 in. | 27 in. | 20 in. | 264 lb. | 17 lb. | Steel | Polyester | O-shaped | 7.1 in. | 1.5 in. | Rubber | ||||||||||
8 | Whitsunday Folding Collapsible Utility Camping Park Wagon | ![]() | 3.90 | Time-Consuming Setup and Poor Maneuverability | 4.00 | 4.28 | 3.93 | 3.73 | 4.75 | 3.00 | 9 in. | 11 in. | 23 in. | 37 in. | 18 in. | 39 in. | 260 lb. | 22 lb. | Steel, Aluminium | Oxford polyester | O-shaped | 6.5 in. | 2 in. | Rubber | ||||||||||
9 | Mac Collapsible Folding 150 Pound Capacity Outdoor Camping Garden Utility Wagon Yard Cart|WTC-111 | ![]() | 3.89 | A Small Wagon With an Unsteady Handle | 4.00 | 3.29 | 4.23 | 3.71 | 4.38 | 4.75 | 19 in. | 4 in. | 20 in. | 35 in. | 23 in. | 20 in. | 150 lb. | 20 lb. | Steel | Polyester | O-shaped | 7.8 in. | 1.6 in. | Rubber | ||||||||||
10 | Coleman Portable Folding Utility Wagon|2000023362 | ![]() | 3.69 | Decent Capacity but Questionable Durability | 3.00 | 4.31 | 3.97 | 3.97 | 4.83 | 4.43 | 10 in. | 8 in. | 10. in | 13 in. | 32 in. | 10 in. | 150 lb. | 18 lb. | Steel | Polyester | T-shaped | 7.1 in. | 1.5 in. | Resin |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 35 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 20 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 40 in. |
Load Capacity | 220 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 18 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The VIVOSUN Collapsible Folding Wagon takes the top spot as the best collapsible wagon in our ranking for its durable construction, ease of movement, and generous load capacity. It’s versatile for work and leisure and is an excellent choice for anyone buying their very first folding wagon.
The movable O-shaped handle reduces the load when hugging curves (though this will require some effort), while the rubber tires can endure most terrain without issue. It has excellent stability and only requires light force to move. (The cart weighs 18 lbs.)
It’s wrapped in an Oxford knit fabric outer that resists fraying and warping. A 5.5 cu. ft. capacity allows you to haul everything you need for your picnic, campsite, or beach trip without having to go back and reload.
However, be careful if you want to bring this collapsible wagon to the beach, as the tires are only 1.5 in. wide. On the flip side, the tires have a 6.7 in. diameter, so you should have no problem navigating slightly uneven mountain trails.
Other things to look out for are a lack of a handle holder (so you can’t secure it while storing) and a slightly cumbersome setup due to the separate bottom plate attachment. Despite those concerns, our testers rate it number one for its overall ease of use and sturdy build.
Height when stored (measured value) | 27 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 6.7 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.5 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 18 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 35 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 12 in. |
Load Capacity | 225 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 18 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The highlight of the TIMBER RIDGE Collapsible Wagon Cart is its side mesh pockets. This is a nice way to add storage since the cart itself is only 4.5 cu. ft. (This wouldn’t be a good choice if you need to haul a lot of items on your own.)
While the polyester outer is prone to fraying with repeated use, it does have a movable O-shaped handle to reduce the load when turning. However, some of our testers said the handle wobbled more than they would have liked.
It has shock-resistant rubber tires that are 1.5 in. wide (too thin for the beach) with a 7-in. diameter (good for most mountain trails). The wheels respond well to minor adjustments for easy turns, but sharp turns will require more effort to maneuver safely.
When folded down, it measures 7 in. wide by 9 in. deep, which is a good compact size for stowing in the trunk of your car. Better yet, it has a handle holder so you can secure the handle when storing it. However, it doesn’t have an integrated bottom board, so setup is a little time-consuming.
Height when stored (measured value) | 30 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 7 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.5 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 34 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 19 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 24 in. |
Load Capacity | 220 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 20 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Navatiee Wagon Cart stands out for its incredible ease of setup. It has an integrated bottom plate to make folding a breeze. You also don’t need a separate cover for the bottom plate since it’s already built into the main body of the cart.
The outer cover is an Oxford knit PVC that’ll withstand fraying, while the tires are made of rubber to help absorb shock. However, it has a fixed handle so you’ll need to be mindful when navigating sharp corners. Despite that, our testers otherwise found this cart easy to turn and stable when pulling it straight ahead.
The tires are 1.4 in. wide with a 6.9 in. diameter, so this wagon should fare well on uneven roads but it’ll be less steady on sand. At 19 lbs., it’s light enough to load into a car, but our testers claim you need a little extra effort to pull it due to how it distributes weight.
It has a 4.3 cu. ft. capacity, which is comparable to an average hand cart. You might want to reserve this wagon for smaller trips. Meanwhile, it’s 19 in. wide and 9 in. deep when folded, so you’ll need to make enough space to store it in your trunk.
Height when stored (measured value) | 16 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 6.9 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.4 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 22 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 36 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 23 in. |
Load Capacity | 330 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 22 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Sekey Collapsible Foldable Wagon is designed to navigate any terrain thanks to its thick tires – 3.7 in. wide with a diameter of 6.5 in. You’ll be able to bring this cart on the beach or steep mountain trails without any issue.
Another standout feature is the movable O-shaped handle. This will reduce the load when making turns. The outer fabric has an Oxford weave, so it’ll be less prone to fraying. Though the wheels are an excellent size, they’re made of plastic resin instead of rubber, so they won’t absorb shock as well.
The wagon has a 5.6 cu. ft, capacity so you’ll be able to haul a lot of equipment at once. Our testers said this cart handles well when driving it straight, but it’s difficult to change directions and make sharp turns. It’s also 22 lbs., so you’ll need to put a little force into moving it.
When stored, it measures 9 in. wide and 11 in. deep so it should fit well with the rest of the equipment in your trunk. The storage bag is a nice bonus, but there’s no handle holder. Our testers also said this collapsible cart was tricky to assemble and fold down.
Height when stored (measured value) | 24 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 7 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 3.7 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 23 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 37 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 42 in. |
Load Capacity | 180 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 18 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
If you need to haul a lot of gear, the Costway Collapsible Folding Wagon boasts a generous 6.7 cu. ft. storage capacity. You can easily load a tent, table, chair, and cooler in one shot.
It has a movable O-shaped handle to help reduce load when making turns. The outer is made of a strong Oxford-woven fabric, but the wheels are plastic, so they won’t absorb shock as well. Further, there were times when the tire's contact with the ground was unstable, which made for less-than-ideal handling.
In our tests, this wagon demonstrated good stability when moving straight, and our testers liked how easy it was to change directions. The wheels are 1.4 in. wide with a 6.9 in. diameter. They’re too thin for the beach but broad enough for moderate mountain trails and hiking paths.
This collapsible wagon measures 9 in. wide by 9 in. deep when folded and comes with a convenient storage bag. However, there’s no way to fix the handle when stored, and you’ll need to lift it from the center when folding it, which our testers found a bit cumbersome.
Height when stored (measured value) | 24.5 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 6.9 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.4 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 43 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 20 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 22 in. |
Load Capacity | 150 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 22 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The MACSPORTS Classio Wagon with Side Table is a great choice for tailgating and outdoor sporting events. The side table has dual cup holders so you can free your hands to cheer for your favorite team.
What’s especially impressive about this cart is its maneuverability. It has rubber wheels with a 7.8 diameter, which makes it easy to pull on uneven terrains like riverbeds and grass. Our testers liked the length of the handle and found it comfortable to pull. However, the handle is fixed, which can make turns a little tricky.
This cart's total capacity is somewhat limited at 3.4 cu. ft – you’ll need to carry tents and tables separately. Plus, the wheels are 1.6 in. wide and therefore likely to sink in sandy terrain, making it unsuitable for the beach.
When folded down, it’s 20 in. wide by 3 in. deep, so it’s bulky to store. The bottom plate isn't integrated so you'll need to install it separately, which can take a little extra time. Still, the foldable frame is easy to open and close with minimal force required.
Height when stored (measured value) | 8 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 7.8 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.6 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 40 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 27 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 20 in. |
Load Capacity | 264 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 17 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Amazon Basics Collapsible Folding Outdoor Utility Wagon is a lightweight cart that’s fitting for smaller loads. It weighs 17 lbs. and has a 3.7 cu. ft. storage capacity.
The tires are made of rubber and measure 7.1 in. in diameter, so this wagon will fare well on uneven terrain. However, with a 1.5 in. width, these wheels are too thin to tread sand.
The O-shaped handle is fixed, and our testers claim that it’s wobbly so changing directions will be somewhat of a challenge. Despite those issues, this cart otherwise moves smoothly when you pull it straight. Also, the wheels are agile, making it easy to dodge obstacles,
When folded, this cart measures 19 in. wide by 5 in. deep, so it won’t take up too much space in your trunk. Plus, you can fix the handle when storing it. The integrated baseboard ensures a quick, seamless setup, too.
Height when stored (measured value) | 20 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 7.1 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.5 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 37 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 18 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 39 in. |
Load Capacity | 260 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 22 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Whitsunday Folding Collapsible Utility Camping Park Wagon has a tabletop attachment so you can use it for picnics, tailgates, or even playing card games at the campsite.
It has rubber tires and an Oxford weave polyester outer, which are great for durability. Unfortunately, the handle is fixed so changing directions and making turns will require a little extra effort, especially since the wheels don’t move so easily.
The tires are large enough to handle rocky terrain, but they’re not thick enough to avoid getting stuck in the sand. The tire joints are smooth and there’s no resistance, but our testers noticed that this cart wobbles when pulled straight.
It measures a compact 9 in. by 11 in. when folded. However, you can’t stow the handle and attaching the bottom board and the cover band takes a significant amount of time. The included storage bag is also cramped and difficult to close.
Height when stored (measured value) | 23 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 6.5 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 2 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 35 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 23 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 20 in. |
Load Capacity | 150 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 20 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Mac Collapsible Folding Utility Wagon has 7.8 in. rubber wheels to help it maneuver uneven terrain, though they’re not thick enough to safely tread sandy beaches. In our tests, this cart remained stable when pulled on a straight path.
However, it has a fixed handle so difficulty in changing directions could lead it to break down sooner. It’ll also require a lot more effort to turn. The handle length adjustment lever seems to loosen and automatically extend when pulling heavy loads, according to our testers.
It’s also not very big, with a 3.2 cu. ft. storage capacity. Reserve this one for small day trips instead of longer camping excursions. When stored, it measures 19 in. wide and 4 in. deep, which isn’t super compact. On the plus side, it has a foldable frame and no bottom plate, so you can set it up in no time.
Height when stored (measured value) | 20 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 7.8 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.6 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 13 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 32 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 10 in. |
Load Capacity | 150 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 18 lb. |
Handle Shape | T-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Coleman Portable Folding Utility Wagon has a gray exterior accented with yellow stripes that give it some style. Unfortunately, the polyester outer doesn’t have an Oxford weave so it’s likely to fray over time.
On the flip side, there’s a movable handle to help lessen the load when making turns – but it’s a T-shaped handle so it’s harder to grip and apply the right amount of force without feeling like the cart is moving you. Also, the wheels are made of plastic instead of rubber so they won’t absorb shock as well.
This cart has a 4.8 cu. ft. capacity. That’s enough for a tent and a cooler, but for larger items, you’ll probably need to make separate trips or ask someone else to carry them. Overall, this wagon is stable when pulled forward and it can handle rougher terrain thanks to its 7.1 in. diameter wheels.
It measures 10 in. by 8 in. when stored and comes with a handle you can stow away. On the other hand, the separate bottom plate makes it a hassle to set up and break down.
Height when stored (measured value) | 10. in |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 7.1 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.5 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 35 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 20 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 37 in. |
Load Capacity | 220 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 18 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shpaed |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Sekey Collapsible Foldable Wagon has mesh siding so you can easily see what’s inside. However, the outer cover is made of polyester that’s prone to fraying.
Perhaps the biggest issue with this folding cart is its lack of maneuverability. Plastic wheels and a fixed handle don’t make it the best at turns and sudden direction changes. The silver lining here is the 6.7 in. wheel diameter, so it’s capable of traveling over gentle slopes.
A 4.8 cu. ft. storage capacity is big enough for a tent, cooler, and large luggage but you still run the risk of having to make return trips if you have a lot of stuff. When folded, it measures 20 in. by 5 in., so you’ll need to clear some room in your trunk for this one.
Fortunately, it’s easy to set up – just remove the cover band and unfold the frame. Just beware that the base plate isn’t integrated and there’s no way to stow the handle when storing the cart.
Height when stored (measured value) | 37 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 6.7 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.3 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 18 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 35 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 21 in. |
Load Capacity | 180 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 16 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Embark Collapsible Wagon is rather lightweight at 16 lbs. It’s also easy to maneuver as it’s capable of changing direction on a dime and making tight turns with little force required. Our testers found it remains stable when pulled forward, as well.
However, there’s a huge question mark regarding its durability. This cart has a fixed handle, plastic wheels, and a weak polyester outer cover. It’s not very large, either, with a 3.3 cu. ft. storage capacity. It’s best for infrequent day trips. Another point of concern is the handle lock, which doesn’t stay in place as you’re pulling it.
It folds down into a compact 8 in. by 7 in. and also includes a way to secure the handle. The setup will take a little longer due to a lack of an integrated bottom plate.
Height when stored (measured value) | 21 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 7 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 1.4 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
Width when expanded (measured value) | 32 in. |
---|---|
Depth when expanded (measure value) | 9 in. |
Height when expanded (measured value) | 17 in. |
Load Capacity | 220 lb. |
Main Unit Weight (measured value) | 23 lb. |
Handle Shape | O-shaped |
The HAPPYBUY Extra Large Collapsible Garden Cart has an eye-catching design. It comes in vibrant colors and includes a roof – it’s not very large at 2.8 cu. ft., so you’ll want to reserve it for smaller day trips.
The Oxford weave polyester will endure years of use, but a fixed handle will bear the brunt of the load when making turns. Also, the wheels are made of plastic so they won’t absorb shock all that well, but they’re 3.9 in. wide and 6.5 in. in diameter – good for the beach or the hiking trail.
Our testers found this cart stable when pulling it forward, but making turns was troublesome and required some effort. Plus, our testers felt like the weight of the cart transferred directly to their arms, leading to fatigue
When folded, it measures 19 in. wide by 6 in. deep. Although this cart fits easily in a trunk, it does take up a considerable amount of space. On the plus side, a foldable body with an integrated bottom plate makes setup easy.
Height when stored (measured value) | 9.8 in. |
---|---|
Tire Diameter (measured value) | 6.5 in. |
Tire Width (measured value) | 3.9 in. |
Functionable as Table | |
With Canopy | |
With Push Bar | |
Rotating Handle | |
Telescoping Handle | |
With Storage Cover | |
With Side Pouch | |
With Bottle Holder | |
Integrated Bottom Plate |
At mybest, we think the best collapsible wagon has ample storage space, is easy to maneuver, and can be used most places outdoors. Our candidates are 13 of the best-selling foldable carts from Amazon, Target, and Walmart. From there, we tested each of them based on the following six factors:
Durability
Loading Capacity
Ease of Use on Rough Terrain
Ease of Maneuvering
Portability
Ease of Setup/Cleanup
Products we tested
Collapsible wagons that score high in this area demonstrate that they’re capable of navigating uneven terrain and withstand heavy loads.
Our testers checked each product, scored them based on the points below, and rated them based on performance.
Type of handle
Material of tires
Fabric material
Ideally, a foldable wagon should be able to accommodate almost one day's worth of family camping gear.
We measured the width, depth, and height of the inside of each cart with a tape measure and calculated the volume. We ranked each item based on size, with larger volumes receiving higher scores (up to 7 cu. ft.).
Equipment used: Measuring tape (3.5m measuring tape)
Wagons that score well here are capable of being wheeled on the beach and uneven surfaces, even when they’re fully loaded.
We measured the width and diameter of the tires. Each score is weighted and used to calculate an overall rating for ease of use on rough terrains.
Tire Width
The width of a cart's tire was measured using a tire width gauge. With a maximum of 3.9 inches, the wider the tire, the better it’s rated for the beach, as it’ll be less likely to sink in the sand.
Tire Diameter
The diameter of a cart's tire was measured using a tire diameter gauge. With a maximum of 7.8 inches, the bigger the tire, the better it’s rated for hills, bumpy roads, and grass.
Equipment used: Tape Measure (3.5m Tape Measure)
Wagons that excel in this area are able to move in all directions with minimal force, as that will help prevent fatigue.
Our testers towed carts with roughly 180 lbs. of items inside and then scored and ranked each cart accordingly.
Testers: Experienced Campers (8 people)
Weight of the weights: 176lbs
Route taken: Marks are set every 10 feet for turns, U-turns, and straight paths.
The handle can be adjusted to any length.
The ease of moving straight
The ease of changing directions
The ease of advancing
Pulling with minimal force
We measured the weight, width, and depth of each cart when folded, then scored and ranked each cart accordingly.
Weight
We weighed each cart on a scale. Lighter items scored higher.
Width, Depth, Height When Stored
We measured the width, depth, and height of each wagon when folded using a tape measure. Smaller sizes scored higher.
Equipment used: Scale (A&D Digital Scale SL-20K)
Equipment used: Tape measure (3.5m)
Our testers were looking for carts that could be set up and folded down in little time, without much effort required.
Testers checked each product and scored them based on the following points.
Is it easy to cover with a storage bag?
With or without a handle holder
Type
Number of adjustment levels
No. 1: VIVOSUN |Collapsible Folding Wagon
No. 2: TIMBER RIDGE |Collapsible Wagon Cart
No. 3: Navatiee |Wagon Cart
No. 4: Sekey |Collapsible Foldable Wagon
No. 5: Costway |Collapsible Folding Wagon|84985978
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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